Is there a train from St. Louis to Austin?

No, there is no direct passenger rail service between these two cities.

How long is the drive from St. Louis to Austin?

The drive takes approximately 13 to 14 hours via I-44 and I-35.

What is the best airport in Austin?

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is the primary airport serving the city.

Are there tolls on the way to Austin?

Yes, expect several toll roads in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

What is the cheapest month to fly to Austin?

January and February typically offer the lowest airfares.

St. Louis

Austin

Flight Driving

St. Louis to Austin

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from St. Louis to Austin covers approximately 1,300 kilometers. You can drive via I-44 West and I-35 South, passing through Oklahoma City. Alternatively, direct flights from St. Louis Lambert International Airport reach Austin-Bergstrom in under three hours. Driving typically takes 13 to 14 hours depending on traffic in Dallas. This route transitions from the Midwest plains to the Texas Hill Country. Plan for significant toll roads once you enter the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.

Total Distance: 1,300 km driving, 1,150 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight is the fastest, taking 2.5 hours in the air plus airport transit time.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest for groups of two or more, costing roughly $200 in fuel.

Compare St. Louis to Austin Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	2 hours 30 mins	13 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	$150-$400	$180-$250 (fuel)
Operator	Southwest Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	STL to AUS	I-44 W to I-35 S
Tip	Book at least three weeks in advance to secure lower fares on Southwest.	Avoid driving through downtown Dallas during rush hours between 7 AM and 9 AM.

Travel Tips

Toll Tags
Get a TxTag or K-Tag to pay tolls electronically on Texas highways.
Airport Transit
Use the CapMetro bus route 20 to get from the airport to downtown for a low fare.
Hydration
Carry extra water in your car, especially during the hot summer months in Texas.
Parking
Use the ParkATX app to manage street parking payments in downtown Austin.
Music Venues
Check the Austin Chronicle website for daily listings of local band performances.

Safety Tips

Highway Safety
Watch for high-speed traffic on I-35, which is known for heavy congestion and aggressive drivers.
Weather Awareness
Monitor local news for flash flood warnings, which are common in the Texas Hill Country.
Vehicle Prep
Check your tire pressure before leaving St. Louis, as heat in Texas can cause blowouts.
Personal Security
Stay in well-lit areas when walking near Sixth Street at night.